How Does Caffeine Affect Fertility?

Caffeine is commonly consumed in daily life through coffee, tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks. However, excessive caffeine intake may negatively affect the reproductive system and reduce the chances of pregnancy, especially for individuals who are planning to conceive or undergoing assisted reproductive treatments.

What Is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a stimulant of the central nervous system that helps increase alertness and reduce fatigue. It can influence hormone balance, blood circulation, and the function of various organs in the body, including the reproductive system in both women and men.

Caffeine and Female Fertility

Research suggests that high caffeine consumption may affect female reproductive health in several ways, including:

• Disruption of female hormone balance
• Effects on ovulation and egg quality
• Reduced blood flow to the uterus
• Lower embryo implantation rates

For patients preparing for assisted reproductive treatments, doctors often recommend limiting caffeine intake to help maintain hormonal balance and create a favorable uterine environment for pregnancy.

Caffeine and Male Fertility

Caffeine may also directly affect sperm quality, particularly when consumed in large amounts on a regular basis, such as:

• Reduced sperm count and concentration
• Decreased sperm motility
• Increased risk of sperm DNA damage

These factors may negatively impact embryo quality and the overall success rates of fertility treatments.

Recommended Caffeine Intake for Those Planning Pregnancy

It is generally recommended to limit caffeine intake to no more than 200 mg per day, which is approximately equivalent to one medium-sized cup of coffee. This helps reduce potential risks to reproductive health.

Common sources of caffeine include:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Soft drinks
• Energy drinks

Recommendations for Patients Preparing for IVF or ICSI

• Reduce or avoid caffeinated beverages
• Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet
• Get adequate rest
• Engage in regular, moderate exercise
• Consult a fertility specialist for personalized health and treatment planning

Although caffeine is a part of everyday life, excessive consumption may negatively affect fertility in both women and men. Adjusting caffeine intake before planning a pregnancy or starting fertility treatment is an important step that can help improve treatment outcomes and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Article by
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mathchuporn Suksaprasert, MD
(Medical License No. 27172)